Meet Jim

Jim Palmer is a lifelong resident of Elmira and Chemung County who has spent much of his life serving the community through education, athletics, conservation, and public service.

Jim and his wife Mary have lived in the Town of Elmira since 1974. Together they raised four sons, and today they are proud grandparents to eight grandchildren growing up in the same community Jim has always called home.

Jim graduated from Notre Dame High School, Corning Community College, Elmira College, and the United States Sports Academy, earning degrees in Business Administration and Economics, Social Studies Secondary Education, and Sports Management.

He spent twenty years working in private industry as a manufacturer’s representative before beginning a second career in education. Jim taught Global History and Economics at Southside High School for 21 years, where he also coached Varsity and Junior Varsity Baseball and served as Athletic Facilitator for interscholastic sports. He also coached baseball at Horseheads High School and has coached youth baseball, basketball, football, and soccer in the Town of Elmira.

Jim has always believed strongly in giving back to the community. Over the years he has volunteered his time helping with youth sports programs, conservation education, and outdoor activities that connect young people to the natural resources of Chemung County. He has helped organize events such as Kids Fishing Day at Eldridge Lake, youth pheasant hunts, conservation education programs, and fish and pheasant stocking efforts throughout the county.

Jim has also served in leadership roles in several community organizations, including President of Trout Unlimited, President of the Josh Palmer Fund, and Past President of the Ancient Order of Hibernians.

Today Jim serves as Chemung County Legislator for District 7, representing residents in the Town of Elmira and surrounding communities. His focus in public service has been supporting local families, strengthening community spaces, promoting responsible government, and working with others to help Chemung County remain a place where people are proud to live and raise their families.